Union Budget 2025: What is ‘bahi khata’?

In 2019, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s first full-time female finance minister, made a striking statement by replacing the traditional briefcase with a ‘bahi khata’ on Budget presentation day. This move marked a significant departure from the colonial-era tradition of carrying Budget documents in a briefcase—a practice that had been followed for decades. The switch to the ‘bahi khata’ was not just a change in prop but a powerful symbol of India’s cultural heritage, financial inclusivity, and a break from colonial legacies. Here’s a detailed look at the significance of this change and what it represents for modern-day Budget presentations.

What is a ‘Bahi Khata’?

The ‘bahi khata’ is a traditional Indian ledger used for accounting and record-keeping. It is a bound book, often wrapped in cloth, used to document financial transactions. The term is derived from the Hindi words ‘bahi’ (meaning ‘book’) and ‘khata’ (meaning ‘account’). Traditionally, these ledgers contained handwritten entries in a distinct format, serving as a reliable tool for businesses and traders to maintain their accounts.

The ‘bahi khata’ carried by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was clad in red cloth, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune in Indian culture. This traditional ledger, once a staple of Indian businesses, became a powerful emblem of the country’s economic aspirations and cultural identity.

The Colonial Legacy of the Briefcase

For decades, Indian finance ministers posed outside Parliament with Budget documents in a leather briefcase, a practice inherited from the British colonial era. The briefcase, often seen as a symbol of Western bureaucracy, became synonymous with the Budget presentation. However, this tradition was deeply rooted in colonial practices, which many felt were no longer relevant to modern India.

The switch to the ‘bahi khata’ in 2019 was seen as a deliberate move to break away from colonial traditions and embrace a more Indianized approach to governance and economic planning.

Why the Shift to ‘Bahi Khata’?

The transition from the briefcase to the ‘bahi khata’ was not merely a symbolic gesture but a reflection of India’s evolving identity and priorities. Here’s why this change holds significance:

1. A Shift Away from Colonial Practices

The ‘bahi khata’ represents a conscious effort to move away from colonial-era symbols and practices. By adopting a traditional Indian ledger, the government signaled its commitment to decolonizing Indian institutions and embracing indigenous traditions.

2. A Symbol of Indian Heritage

The ‘bahi khata’ is deeply rooted in India’s cultural and economic history. It reflects the country’s rich tradition of accounting and record-keeping, which dates back centuries. By using this traditional ledger, the government paid tribute to India’s heritage and its long-standing practices of financial management.

3. A Symbol of Financial Inclusion

Unlike the briefcase, which is often associated with elite bureaucrats and corporate executives, the ‘bahi khata’ is a more relatable symbol for the common man. It represents the small traders, merchants, and family-owned businesses that form the backbone of India’s economy. This shift underscores the government’s focus on financial inclusion and its commitment to addressing the needs of all sections of society.

4. A Modern Interpretation of Tradition

While the ‘bahi khata’ is a traditional tool, its use in the modern Budget presentation symbolizes the fusion of tradition and modernity. It reflects India’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future, blending cultural heritage with contemporary governance.

The ‘Bahi Khata’ in Modern-Day Accounting

While the ‘bahi khata’ holds cultural and symbolic significance, its practical use in modern-day accounting has diminished. Today, most businesses in India rely on computerized accounting systems, software, and digital tools to manage their finances. However, the traditional ledger still finds relevance among small traders, merchants, and family-owned businesses, who may use it alongside modern tools.

The use of the ‘bahi khata’ in the Budget presentation serves as a reminder of India’s journey from traditional accounting methods to advanced digital systems, highlighting the country’s progress while honoring its roots.

What Does the ‘Bahi Khata’ Represent in Modern India?

In contemporary India, the ‘bahi khata’ has become a symbolic representation of the country’s annual Budget. It signifies:

• Economic Prosperity: The red cloth covering the ‘bahi khata’ symbolizes prosperity and good fortune, reflecting the government’s aspirations for economic growth and development.
• Cultural Identity: The use of a traditional Indian ledger underscores the country’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting indigenous practices.
• Inclusive Governance: By choosing a symbol that resonates with the common man, the government emphasizes its focus on inclusive growth and financial empowerment.